Barcelona will be without teenage sensation Lamine Yamal for their Champions League opener against Newcastle United on Thursday, after the winger was left out of Hansi Flick’s squad with a groin injury.
The 18-year-old has been one of Barcelona’s brightest young talents, playing a key role in their La Liga title triumph last season. However, his fitness has become a growing concern after returning from international duty with Spain earlier this month.
Yamal featured heavily for his country, playing 79 minutes in Spain’s 3-0 victory over Bulgaria on 4 September before logging another 73 minutes in a 6-0 win against Turkey just three days later. Barcelona coach Flick was openly critical of the workload placed on the teenager, suggesting that the Spanish federation needed to manage his minutes more carefully.
Injury Concerns
Yamal missed Barcelona’s emphatic 6-0 win over Valencia at the weekend due to discomfort in his groin and has not recovered in time to travel with the squad to England. Although the injury is not considered long-term, Barcelona are keen to avoid aggravating the issue given the importance of the player to both their present campaign and long-term future.
Flick has made it clear he values Yamal’s development but stressed the need for caution. “He is a special player with immense talent, but at 18 years old we must protect him,” said the Barcelona manager. “We hope to have him back very soon, but his health and long-term career are the priority.”
Other Absentees
Yamal is not the only absentee for Barcelona ahead of their clash at St James’ Park. Spain left-back Alejandro Balde remains sidelined with a hamstring problem, while midfielder Gavi continues his long rehabilitation from a serious knee injury sustained last season.
Netherlands international Frenkie de Jong also missed the win over Valencia after his own international commitments, but he has been cleared to return and is expected to start in midfield against Newcastle.
The absence of Yamal and Balde could force Flick into tactical adjustments, with Raphinha and Ferran Torres likely to play significant roles in attack. João Félix could also be drafted into the starting XI as Barcelona look to begin their Champions League campaign on a strong note.
Newcastle Test
Barcelona face a difficult test against Newcastle, who are returning to the Champions League for the second consecutive season under Eddie Howe. The Premier League side, buoyed by a passionate St James’ Park crowd, will be eager to claim a major scalp in their opening fixture.
Flick acknowledged the challenge ahead. “Newcastle are a very physical and organised side,” he said. “We will need to be disciplined, but also brave in possession. Playing here is never easy.”
A Breakthrough Year for Yamal
Despite his absence, Yamal remains central to Barcelona’s long-term plans. The winger burst onto the scene last season, becoming the youngest player to feature regularly for the club and delivering key performances in their successful La Liga campaign. His pace, creativity, and fearless approach have already drawn comparisons with some of the club’s greatest attacking talents.
Barcelona’s medical staff are optimistic Yamal will return after the Newcastle match, potentially in time for the following Champions League fixture. In the meantime, Flick has urged his squad to show resilience and depth.
Looking Ahead
Barcelona will hope that resting Yamal prevents further setbacks, particularly as the club aims to compete for both domestic and European honours this season. With their Champions League group also featuring Inter Milan and Galatasaray, every point could prove crucial.
For now, all eyes will be on how Barcelona cope without their teenage star at one of Europe’s most intimidating stadiums. The trip to Newcastle may provide an early test of Flick’s ability to adapt under pressure while managing a squad beset by injuries.
